Beyond the magic of Disneyland® Park and the cheers at Ducks games, Anaheim and its neighboring cities are bursting with unexpected adventures that won’t strain your wallet. Picture diving into art museums overflowing with creativity, rummaging through eclectic markets for hidden treasures and lounging in the calm of expansive gardens—all while keeping your spending in check. Embark on a flavor-packed escapade through bustling food halls, practice your golf swing without the hefty price and unwind in a lush arboretum.

We’ve rounded up 18 fun and wallet-friendly activities in Anaheim and Orange County, so get ready to embark on an adventure that’s as entertaining as it is affordable. Here are 18 things to do in Anaheim and beyond that won’t break the bank!

MUZEO

Embrace Art and Culture at the Muzeo Museum + Cultural Center 

Price Point: $10 or less

Dive into the vibrant world of arts and culture at Muzeo Museum + Cultural Center. With its rotating exhibits, educational programs and cultural events, Muzeo offers an affordable opportunity to explore diverse aspects of art and history. From contemporary art to historical artifacts, there’s something here to inspire everyone—25,000 square feet of real estate to explore! For $10 (or $8 if you’re an Anaheim resident), you can explore this cultural center and all it has to offer. They also do fun events like a Wine and Paint night and an Eco Art Camp for kids—be sure to check out their website to see what they have coming up!

OCMA

Explore the Orange County Museum of Art

Price Point: Admission is free

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) boasts a dynamic array of exhibitions that capture the innovative spirit of Orange County. With a commitment to showcasing the work of both established and emerging artists, OCMA provides a platform for diverse voices and groundbreaking art. The museum’s free admission policy ensures that art is accessible to all, inviting visitors to explore its compelling collections and thought-provoking installations without the worry of cost. 

Anaheim Indoor Marketplace, Swampmeet in Anaheim

Shop at the Anaheim Indoor Marketplace

Price Point: Admission is free

Say hello to the Anaheim Indoor Marketplace! With over 200 specialty shops wedged inside Orange County’s largest swap meet, there’s really no telling what you’ll find inside this eclectic treasure trove. Just five minutes from Disneyland® Park, this indoor marketplace carries everything from cosmetics and clothing to food and housewares. The best part? You can shop local and support the Anaheim community while still coming in under budget—it’s a win-win! 

 

Sherman Library & Gardens	Affordable things to do in Anaheim and OC

Stroll Through Sherman Library & Gardens

Price Point: Admission is $5

Nestled in the heart of Corona del Mar, Sherman Library & Gardens offers a tranquil escape that blends horticultural mastery with a slice of California’s history. This living museum, spanning over two acres, is an oasis of blooming gardens, with everything from tropical conservatories to succulent displays. Entry fees are modest ($5 per person), and beyond the flora, this landmark provides a deep dive into the Pacific Southwest’s past, making it an ideal spot for both garden enthusiasts and history buffs. Whether you’re meandering through the rose garden or exploring the historical archives, Sherman Library & Gardens promises a serene and educational day out.

 

Play the Day Away at Board Games at Meeples Family

Price Point: $3 per person (per hour)

Meeples Family is a haven for board game fanatics who are on a budget. For just a small admission fee (we’re talking $3 per person), you gain access to a vast collection of board games that will keep you entertained for hours. With cozy seating and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot to challenge your friends or make new ones over a game of strategy and fun. Pick a game, snag a tent, and hit up the concessions to keep you sharp during your shakedown. Open seven days a week, this quaint cafe is all sorts of nostalgic, so come ready to relive the past through your favorite childhood board games.

Orange Circle

Vintage Shopping in Old Towne Orange

Price Point: Free

Old Towne Orange, also known as “The Orange Circle,” is a historic district bursting with character. Stroll through tree-lined streets filled with antique shops, charming boutiques and cozy cafes. This vibrant area is perfect for a leisurely day of exploration, where you can admire historic architecture, hunt for unique treasures and savor affordable eats. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the iconic Orange Plaza Fountain as a backdrop. Some of our favorite Old Towne spots include Bosscat, Haven Gastropub and 1886 Brewing Company.

 

Live the Lush Life at Fullerton Arboretum

Price Point: Free

Discover a slice of paradise at the Fullerton Arboretum, a hidden gem where you can get a moment of quiet amid this metropolis. Stroll through 26 acres of lush gardens, including themed gardens like the Desert Garden and the Heritage House Garden. Enjoy a leisurely walk along tranquil trails, or simply relax by the ponds and admire the vibrant flora and fauna. With free admission and affordable events like plant sales and workshops, it’s the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. Parking is ample, and you are guaranteed to get your steps in.

Train Taking Off From ARTIC Anaheim, CA

Take a Day Trip via the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center

Price Point: Approximately $15-40 

Did someone say “day trip?” If you’re looking for things to do in Anaheim, pack your bags and head over to the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) for a mini getaway; this transportation hub provides bus, rail, taxi and other services. Located right next to Angel Stadium, it’s centrally located for all your travel needs! Whether you’re venturing south to the coastal county of San Diego or exploring the northern city of Santa Barbara, the Metrolink and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner are your gateway to regional gems across Southern California’s coastline. Train tickets to San Diego cost about $20 (depending on the day of the week) and about $30 if you want to make the trek up to Santa Barbara.

 

 

Eat Your Heart Out at Friday Night Munchies

Price Point: Admission is free; bring $10-25 for food

Dive into the vibrant food scene of Santa Ana with Friday Night Munchies, a weekly food truck event that serves up delectable delights without the hefty price tag. Gather with fellow foodies and explore a rotating lineup of gourmet food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from tacos to artisanal desserts. Enjoy live music and outdoor seating while you discover new flavors. With reasonable prices and a festive atmosphere, Friday Night Munchies promises a delightful and budget-friendly culinary adventure.

 

 

Balboa Island at Newport Beach

Hop Aboard the Balboa Island Ferry

Price Point: $1.75 for adult pedestrians and 50 cents for kids ages 5-11 (cash only)

For a dose of vitamin sea, hop aboard the Balboa Island Ferry! This short but scenic ferry ride to (and from) the charming Balboa Island not only provides a picturesque view of Newport Harbor but also serves as a gateway to the quaint streets and charming atmosphere of the island. With incredibly low fares, this journey is an affordable way to experience Newport’s waterfront lifestyle. Once on the island, visitors can stroll along the bayfront path, indulge in a famous chocolate-dipped Balboa Bar from Sugar ‘n Spice or browse the boutiques and galleries that dot Marine Avenue.

 

 

Treat Yourself at Starbread

Price Point: Approximately $5-15

Indulge your taste buds in Filipino flavors with a visit to Starbread Bakery. Tucked away in West Anaheim, this bakery specializes in pandesal, a delicious Filipino bread roll that’s fluffy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. They also offer a variety of pastries and treats, including the famous Starbread filled with sweet fillings like ube and cheese. It’s a budget-friendly haven for those with a sweet tooth and a sense of adventure for trying international treats. You can get 20 pieces of their famous Starbread for $12—a total steal if you ask us.

 

 

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